2. analog
  3. 176110-172731

The best way to start adding A=analog to my system

When I started this hobby, I never thought I would need a turntable, so I didn’t think about phono stages etc. That changed with a recent listening session. Vinyl just sounds better to me so now I am trying to figure out where I need to spend, where I can go cheap for the moment. Should I balance all parts at the same level or begin with one great piece and gradually upgrade around it?

For context, my current system has:

Blumenhofer Genuin FS2 speakers, Art Audio PX-25 power, Audio Research SP16L pre-amp. I have a Ayre Cx5 CD player/DAC and an MD-90 tuner.

For turntables, I have auditioned Pro-Jects Xtension 9, Rega P3 and the Clearaudio Concept. I am planning to listen to the Clearaudio Performance next and based on what I have read and heard, I think that may be the answer. but that is a $2k step up in price. Part of me is thinking just get the better table and maybe the Tracer arm and start with cheaper cartridge/stage for now, vs matching things that are more within budget and then having to change everything later.

What makes the most sense?

saulh

Showing 2 responses by drbond

drbond
442 posts
 

@cakyol

LOL! I just transitioned from digital to analog! I would have to agree with you that most people will enjoy digital more than analog, especially with analog rigs costing less than $7-10k; however, at the top end, analog is much, much superior in musical quality and enjoyment.

Start with a MC cartridge that costs $2k+, and you’ll begin to hear the differences, but for cartridges less than $2k, I would have to agree with you that digital will be much more superior in sound quality. 

drbond
442 posts
 

@cakyol 

I think it can be helpful not to get wrapped up in the analog / digital debate.  They both can be excellent media, and appreciated for their differences!  (I just demonstrated this to myself by listening to the same performance of Gilels playing Beethoven's Piano Concertos on both CD and LP today, and with two different cartridges on the LP.)  

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